For Your Knowledge

Those receiving care in today's American medical system usually don't know, quite frankly, what is going on or even what is happening to them. That especially applies to which professionals provide what. I want to shed some light on that issue when it comes to the world of physical therapy. First, you have a physical therapist (PT). Decades ago, that degree was a bachelor's degree. Then it became a master's degree. Now it's a clinical doctorate degree. Physical therapist assistants work under the direction of physical therapists. To be a physical therapist assistant (PTA) an associate's degree is required. In many settings you are also likely to find physical therapy aides or technicians (techs). There is no degree or license requirement to be this form of helper. As students in PT and PTA programs must fulfill internship requirements, students are also commonly found in the various physical therapy settings. Settings, for example, include outpatient clinics, inpatient rehabilitation venues, and acute care in hospitals. If you are ever wondering who is administering your care, by all means ask. --Laura